OVC FY25 Enhanced Collaborative Model (ECM) Task Force to Combat Human Trafficking

The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs, is offering funding under the Enhanced Collaborative Model (ECM) Task Force to Combat Human Trafficking. This initiative supports jurisdictions in developing or expanding a multidisciplinary task force approach to identify and serve victims of both sex and labor trafficking. The OVC, a long-standing federal agency committed to upholding victims' rights and improving services, aims to empower communities through this model by fostering collaboration between law enforcement, victim service organizations, and other key stakeholders such as prosecutors, regulatory agencies, and survivor advocates. The ECM program is structured around three categories of awards. Category 1 supports the development of new local or tribal task forces, offering up to $1.2 million per task force (with $700,000 allocated per applicant) to build foundational structures, develop protocols, and engage in community assessments. Category 2 is tailored to previously OVC-funded local or tribal task forces ready to expand their operations and partnerships, with up to $1.5 million per task force ($900,000 per applicant). Category 3 provides up to $2 million per statewide task force ($1,000,000 per applicant) to support broad, multidisciplinary responses to trafficking across entire states, whether the task forces are new or previously funded. The funding opportunity supports numerous eligible uses, including task force coordination, professional development, victim-centered service provision, law enforcement investigations, and the development of training and outreach materials. Grantees are expected to employ trauma-informed and survivor-informed practices and must engage trafficking survivors in the program’s design and implementation. Some unallowable costs include direct cash assistance to victims, vehicle purchases, holding empty shelter beds, and activities that promote the legalization or practice of prostitution. A 25% cost-sharing or match is required, which may be fulfilled via cash or in-kind contributions such as staff time, supplies, or donated services. Applicants must submit two coordinated applications through the JustGrants system: one from a lead law enforcement agency and one from a lead victim service organization. Applications must be initiated in Grants.gov by March 11, 2026, and completed in JustGrants by March 18, 2026. A range of documentation is required, including letters of intent or memoranda of understanding (depending on the category), detailed narratives, organizational charts, resumes, budgets, and performance measures. These documents must demonstrate administrative capacity, strategic planning, partnership structures, and compliance with federal and VAWA confidentiality requirements. Evaluation of proposals will include both a basic minimum requirement screening and a merit-based peer review. Key review criteria include the problem statement, goals and objectives, design and implementation, capacity and competency, budget alignment, and supporting documentation such as MOUs. OVC will also consider geographic coverage, past performance, and strategic priorities such as protecting children, supporting victims, and combating violent crime. Award notifications will be made via JustGrants, and selected applicants must begin performance on July 1, 2026. The program is funded at up to $22 million total and is expected to result in 20 to 30 awards across all categories. This opportunity recurs annually. It is critical for interested applicants to adhere to deadlines and application requirements closely. OVC offers webinars, FAQs, and direct contact with the OJP Response Center to assist prospective grantees with the application process.

Submit two separate applications (one from law enforcement, one from victim services); missing either disqualifies the application.